Gamu gets her moment in the spotlight at Alesha Dixon-hosted MOBOs

She might not have made it to the X Factor live shows, but Gamu Nhengu is still one of the public's favourites.

There was a particularly warm welcome waiting for the Zimbabwe-born singer at the Music Of Black Origin Awards (MOBO) this week, when she arrived on the red carpet.

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Spectators clapped and cheered for the 18-year-old, who was clearly enjoying her moment in the spotlight.

Gamu, pretty in a black velvet dress and leopard-print heels, told reporters her visa issues were still unresolved.

"It's still a little up in the air. We don't know what's happening and haven't had any contact yet," said the youngster, who has lived in Scotland for the past eight years but is facing deporatation with her family.

The glam night out was a chance for the singer to forget about her troubles, however, as she mingled with a host of stars at the Liverpool event.

Making the biggest impact on the red carpet with her fashion choice was Alesha Dixon. The Strictly judge was simply stunning in a dramatic backless black minidress with long back train. And you couldn't miss the conical shoulders.

She wore something equally as eye catching – a studded white dress with spiked shoulders – when she took to the stage to perform.

Alesha was also on hosting duty at the ceremony, joining forces with Radio 1 DJ Reggie Yates.

Picking up awards on the night – which was opened in style with a performance from Mark Ronson - included the massively popular JLS.

They took home two, while Lily Allen's pal Professor Green and band of the moment N-Dubz were also successful.